The Federal High Court in Abuja has continued hearing in the cybercrime case involving activist and social media commentator Justice Mark Chidiebere, popularly known as Justice Crack.
The court also granted the defendant bail in the sum of N5 million with strict conditions attached to his release.
Justice Crack Cybercrime Trial Continues in Abuja
Justice Crack cybercrime trial resumed before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The court ruled that the bail condition must include one surety in like sum.
According to the ruling, the surety must reside within the court’s jurisdiction and provide proof of residence.
Court Lists Bail Conditions
Justice Crack cybercrime trial also featured conditions requiring the surety to be a federal civil servant not below Grade Level 15.
The court directed the surety to submit evidence of salary payment, pensionable employment and an affidavit of means.
Justice Crack was also ordered to deposit his international passport with the court registry.
DSS Witness Gives Testimony
During Justice Crack cybercrime trial, the first prosecution witness, identified as Uruntu Douglas, testified before the court.
The witness, said to be an operative of the Department of State Services, stated that the defendant was transferred to the DSS by the Nigerian Army Intelligence Corps.
According to the witness, soldiers allegedly sent pictures to Justice Crack, who then created videos from the materials and shared them online.
Investigators Extracted Phone Data
Justice Crack cybercrime trial also heard that investigators extracted several materials from the defendant’s phone.
The witness told the court that the extracted items included videos posted on social media, conversations with soldiers and chats allegedly discussing protests.
He added that a certificate of compliance was issued after the forensic examination was completed.
Defence Challenges Evidence
Justice Crack cybercrime trial witnessed objections from defence counsel Sam Amadi over some evidence presented by the prosecution.
The defence argued that the investigation report and related documents had not been served before proceedings.
The prosecution later apologised and described the omission as an oversight.
Court Admits DSS Report
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik admitted the DSS investigation report as Exhibit A during the proceedings.
Justice Crack cybercrime trial also involved the tendering of an iPhone, a flash drive and other electronic materials allegedly linked to the case.
However, the defence objected to the admissibility of the flash drive, arguing that its contents had not been properly described in court.
Trial Adjourned Till May 25
Justice Crack cybercrime trial has been adjourned till May 25 for continuation of hearing.
The first prosecution witness was yet to be discharged as proceedings ended for the day.
The case continues to attract attention on social media and within legal circles in Nigeria.
